Bill Ruple: Sowbelly Whittler

Chris, I kinda figured you'd like it given what I know of your taste and craft.

Thanks guys, I appreciate the positive feedback.:cool:

Too bad I can't get seem to get in touch with Bill lately to point him to the discussion.
 
Elliott
That is one very nice Ruple. I really like the color of the stag that Bill put on that one - nicely matched with a lot of different tones.
Great one to have in the collection.
Rick
 
I just acquired a Case ranch stockman, 1973 47 pattern, with 'for flesh only' etched on the spey blade. I don't suppose that has 'for wood only' on the spey. :eek: ;) :D

Seriously, a super grab there, Elliott. I really like the configuration and the heft Bill gave the blades. Topped off with the threaded bolsters and stag, makes this one really special. Congrats! Great addition.

- Joe
 
I just acquired a Case ranch stockman, 1973 47 pattern, with 'for flesh only' etched on the spey blade. I don't suppose that has 'for wood only' on the spey. :eek: ;) :D

Seriously, a super grab there, Elliott. I really like the configuration and the heft Bill gave the blades. Topped off with the threaded bolsters and stag, makes this one really special. Congrats! Great addition.

- Joe

Joe, the only whittling knife I have that includes a spey is a congress made by Boker, the blade selection for which was selected by a decoy carver. It's nice to have the option of distinct blade profiles. :thumbup:

:cool:
 
A beautiful knife that has Ruple written (or should I say fileworked) all over it.

Bet she'll make a great user, Elliott- you gonna put her to work or just laze around in the safe?
 
A beautiful knife that has Ruple written (or should I say fileworked) all over it.

Bet she'll make a great user, Elliott- you gonna put her to work or just laze around in the safe?

I guess we'll have to see about that after it arrives. If I'm wise enough to follow Tony Bose's dictum about never having seen a Brinks truck follow a hearse to the cemetery, I guess it'll find itself in the pocket from time to time. :cool:

Thanks for the encouragement fellas! :thumbup:
 
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Well, the knife arrived about an hour ago. It's almost too nice! :eek:

Honestly though, this knife is a real tribute to the skills of Bill Ruple and the knifemaker's art.

After oiling the joints and wiping down the scales I put it lovingly on the shelf.

Then, thinking better of it I put it in my pocket and carried it with me during a walk in the woods with my dog, Smoky.

At 3 1/8 oz. it carries very lightly but offers a lot of blade.

Half stops, edges and blade alignment are all first rate. :thumbup:

This knife is all I had hoped for and more! :cool:

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Congrats Elliott, just one question, Did you empty out the pockets of everything else as to not scar that beauty. Or is it in one of those man knife purses?:D
 
Blues,

Congrats, I really like the file work on the bolsters. Carry it in good health and use it like ya stole it.
 
You lucky dog! I'm sure your dog feels the joy!! Woof woof!!
 
You lucky dog! I'm sure your dog feels the joy!! Woof woof!!


Smoky says the Ruple's okay though he'd rather have a real sow belly. Barring that, he'll settle for his blanket or bone until opportunity knocks. ;)

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Blues,

Great looking friend,

Dogs have given us their absolute all. We are the center of their universe. We are the focus of their love and faith and trust. They serve us in return for scraps. It is without a doubt the best deal man has ever made. ~Roger Caras
 
Blues halted their daily walk, propped Smoky up between two trees, and fondled his Ruple for the next 15 minutes.

william-wegman-puppies.jpg
 
Blues halted their daily walk, propped Smoky up between two trees, and fondled his Ruple for the next 15 minutes.

ROTFLMAO!!

Rob, that has to be one of the best photos I've ever seen. :thumbup:

I think the pup has a cuter ruple though. ;)
 
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